93 points
"Huh 1994?, drank like a 2004. Cork excellent, just damp 1/10 otherwise solid throughout. Fruit very big, a little sweet, a little tight. No tobacco, soil, or pencil lead as others noted, just Big red and dark fruits no complexity yet IMHO. What did stand out was a good balance (discounting un-resolved sugars). Maybe fantastic in the future. Opened this one too early. "

" 93 points Wine Spectator: "Young and tight, a touch earthy with tart currant and wild berry flavors. Takes time to unfold, but the depth and concentration become evident on the finish, where the flavors linger. Give this time; best after 2001. 73 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 15 percent Merlot, 9 percent Petit Verdot, 3 percent Cabernet Franc." 90-92 points Robert Parker: "The 1994 Cabernet Sauvignon Monte Bello was one of the most backward Cabernets in the March tasting. It almost defies inspection given its austere, extremely tannic, hard style. The opaque purple color is accompanied by a wine that smells and tastes ripe, rich, and brilliantly made, but it will require a minimum of 10-12 years of cellaring to shed enough tannin to become civilized. Although it should be a winner, it may not be as sure a bet as such vintages as 1991, 1992, and 1995. When young, this wine rarely reveals its full potential. Having said that, the last three vintages of the Monte Bello Cabernet Sauvignon (1993, 1994, and 1995) are immensely impressive, with perhaps the 1994 the least expansive - for now." (04/96)"